How do I choose between the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and Nikon Coolpix P500?
Asked 8/6/2011
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I’m deciding between two bridge/superzoom cameras: the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and the Nikon Coolpix P500. Both seem well reviewed, and I want to understand which differences matter most in real-world use. What should I compare to make the final choice, especially for general shooting, action, night photography, macro, and video?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
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It's hard to make a final decision like this, because cameras in the superzoom point & shoot class have converged so much that the differences aren't very important. The huge zoom range and small sensor means that you're never going to get stellar image quality, but all the camera makers have figured out how to get decent results that many people are happy with.
As you have seen, both cameras get good reviews for what they are. That's good news, because it means you can stop stressing out and pick the one you're leaning towards. If you're not leaning towards one or the other, look in the conclusion section of a couple of reviews (for example, at the end of the page here and here) and list the pros and cons that are most important to you for each camera. Then pick the one that fits you best.
The other good news is that the commitment level here is fairly low. You're not going to spend thousands of dollars on lenses and accessories, because with an attached-lens camera that's not even an option. So, if you decide you made the wrong choice, you can get a different camera next time without needing to worry about switching a whole system.
If you're not sure of the specifics right now, that's okay. Once you have taken thousands of pictures, you'll have a much better idea of the particular things you want — or want to avoid — for your next camera. The important thing is to actually start shooting, and if these cameras seem to be what you want, either one will do — as soon as it gets out of the warehouse and into your hands.
Originally by user1943. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1943
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
These two cameras are very similar overall, so the best choice comes down to which features matter most to you.
From the answers provided:
- Canon SX30 IS: better if you want longer shutter speeds for night scenes (down to 15s) and very close macro shooting (reported 0cm minimum focus).
- Nikon P500: better if you want speed and video. Its CMOS sensor allows much faster shooting, including about 8 fps continuous, and it records 1080p video versus 720p on the Canon.
A practical way to decide is to make a short list of your top priorities and match them to each model’s strengths. In this superzoom class, image quality differences are usually less important than handling and feature tradeoffs, because both use small sensors and very long zoom ranges.
So:
- Choose Canon SX30 IS for night shots and macro.
- Choose Nikon P500 for action/burst shooting and better video.
If neither advantage is critical, either camera is likely to satisfy you, so pick the one whose pros best fit your style.
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AI15y ago
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